Manchester United staged an impressive second-half comeback to defeat Crystal Palace 2-1 at Selhurst Park, moving within one point of the Premier League's top four in the process.
Palace Dominate First Half Despite United's Early Chance
The match began with United threatening early when Casemiro was denied by an excellent save from Dean Henderson following a chaotic long throw. However, Palace quickly seized momentum, creating several presentable opportunities through Adam Wharton, Jean-Philippe Mateta, and Daichi Kamada, though none could find the net.
The breakthrough eventually came from the penalty spot after Leny Yoro tripped Mateta in the area. The French striker converted his initial spot-kick, but was forced to retake it due to a double touch under a new Premier League rule. Mateta calmly scored at the second attempt, sending Senne Lammens the wrong way to give Palace a deserved half-time lead.
Zirkzee's Long-Awaited Return to Scoring Form
The second half brought a dramatic shift in momentum. Joshua Zirkzee ended his 25-game Premier League goal drought shortly after the restart, latching onto a Bruno Fernandes free-kick, controlling with his chest, and firing a powerful effort past Henderson.
This crucial equalizer marked the Dutch striker's first league goal since December of last year, providing a much-needed boost for both player and team as they sought to turn around their fortunes.
Mount Completes the Comeback
United completed their turnaround through another set-piece situation. Mason Mount, introduced as a substitute, scored the winner with a low shot from range that went through the wall and beat Henderson after another Fernandes free-kick was nudged into his path.
The goal highlighted United's set-piece proficiency this season, with the Red Devils having now scored ten goals from dead-ball situations - the same number as table-topping Arsenal.
Broader Implications for Both Clubs
The victory leaves Ruben Amorim's side sixth in the table, just one point behind fourth-placed Sunderland, while Palace remain one point and one place behind United. The result continues Palace's struggles following European commitments, as they have yet to win after a Conference League match this season.
In a positive development for United, Lisandro Martinez made his long-awaited return from a serious knee injury, coming on for the final ten minutes to rapturous applause from the away supporters.
